It was really awesome. I don’t remember if I has any issues with it as far as singal is concerned. Travelled to Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Granada, Marbella, Cadiz and Seville. Signal strength was excellent. Skype and whatsup helped me keep in touch with my team back in the home country.

Times Square Broadway, the 5th Avenue, the Statue of Liberty or Central Park in New York; Union Station or the White House in Washington; Boulevard Strip in the festive city of Las Vegas along with an excursion to the Grand Canyon in Colorado; Niagara Falls, Hollywood and Beverly Hills in Los Angeles; the legendary Route 66, and why not…spend some days in San Francisco, the favourite city for native Americans. If you are part of the 69 million visitors travelling to the United States each year, the second most visited country in the world, take good notice of these tips and everything will end up as you have expected.

Documentation and Trip Insurance

Do you know the documents that are necessary to travel to the United States? Not everybody needs a visa to travel to the United States, but a current electronic passport is required. If you are part of one of the 37 countries included in the Visa Waiver Program you should request the Electronic System for travel Authorisation to the United States (ESTA) via internet at least 72 hours prior the trip starts. This way, you will have the possibility to stay a maximum of 90 days for business or tourist trips. On the contrary, if you belong to a country that is not included in program VWP, you should request a visa in your home country. Take into account the fact that this procedure could take several months; therefore it is advisable to start the process as soon as possible. Check the American embassy in your country and you will find all information required.
Once you have all documentation in order, you should start thinking about hiring travel insurance in case you have any inconvenience; don’t forget a good health insurance so you can be assisted because this country does not include free health.

Currency

The official currency in the United States is the United States Dollar.
A maximum of 10.000$ are accepted in foreign currencies at the border. If you are planning on carrying a greater amount you should declare it. Before you continue your trip plans, you should complete all fields included in a document provided by Immigration Services in order to avoid future possible problems, such as a possible deportation.

Electricity and Plugs

You should not forget an adapter if you aim to use electric devices. You will avoid problems with plugs. Voltage is 120v. If you wish to ensure a normal use, you can add an energy transformer to your luggage.

Transport

The most recommended means of transportation between cities is the bus, while the metro is the ideal option to mover around a big city. If you are planning on driving, remember distances are measured in miles and speed should range from 55 to 65 miles per hour. You can drive with your usual driving licence; however it is advisable to request an International Driving Licence at your closest Traffic Police Office.

Shopping

For shopping lovers, commercial opening hours range from 10 am to 7 pm in huge shopping centres and from 09 am to 3 pm in shops. If you travel to a big city, you will find many shops open 24 hours! Don’t forget to have a wifi hotspot, you will surely need it at some point.

Security

Be careful if you are going across isolated neighbourhoods in cities like Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco or Miami and be aware of thefts around the most visited areas and main tourist attractions. Portable wifi can become essential when you are experiencing an emergency.

Weather

USA is an immense country and the weather is highly different across the country. While preparing your trip, take note of the weather forecasted during your trip, taking special attention to hurricanes and tornados. Mobile wifi will help you check the weather at any time.

Tips

Don’t forget to leave a tip if you considered the service has been pleasant and kind. This is a good way of thanking the service offered. The recommended amount you should leave ranges from 15 to 20% of total bill.